Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant "A1" calls on the Flower Island hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like the A36s, though we're not sure yet.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 03:52:19 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard nothing further after a brief bout of A1 calls in Blackfish Sound that ended around 4am. Yesterday's storm is over, & a humpback is breathing in Blackney Pass. Lovely morning here.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 08:46:44 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We just started to hear A1 calls again in Blackfish Sound. It just may be the A36s!
Helena
30 Sep 2007 09:23:29 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It is the A36s!
Helena
30 Sep 2007 09:23:49 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s popped up suddenly in front of CP a short while ago. They then entered Blackney Pass silently and travelled north. They are now in Blackfish Sound. The A36s, earlier, around 10:40am, headed off to the west in Queen Charlotte Strait. It is not clear at the moment whether they continued westward or if they might be waiting for the A30s to catch-up.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 13:50:40 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since early this afternoon & have nothing new to report. Our imprression was that the A30s probably headed north into Queen Charlotte Strait, as did the A36s earlier in the day. However, we aren't sure. We are waiting.
Helena
30 Sep 2007 22:41:53 PDT
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls since early this morning, just after midnight, when (we think) the A30s were headed east out of our hydrophone range. A report this afternoon, of a group of orcas (including 2 adult males) heading west past Brown's Bay in eastern Johnstone StraIt makes us think the A30s may be on their way back to our area. We've resumed live streaming, though there is still a persistent hum on our system, for which we apologise (we're working on the problem).
Helena & Paul
29 Sep 2007 18:07:20 PDT
We've heard no calls since early this morning, just after midnight, when (we think) the A30s were headed east out of our hydrophone range. A report this afternoon, of a group of orcas (including 2 adult males) heading west past Brown's Bay in eastern Johnstone StraIt makes us think the A30s may be on their way back to our area. We've resumed live streaming, though there is still a persistent hum on our system, for which we apologise (we're working on the problem).
Helena & Paul
29 Sep 2007 18:07:20 PDT
Friday, September 28, 2007
No orcas present.
We've heard no more calls overnight & think it's possible that the last calls we heard, around 11:30pm, were from the A30s as they crossed Johnstone Strait towards Weynton Pass, heading "out" on the slack tide. However, there was terrible boat noise in both Johnstone Strait & Blackfish Sound at the time, so we aren't at all sure. It's a beuatiful morning here & the sun is just up... we are waiting.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 07:43:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have suddenly appeared off CP, lovely close calls!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 13:03:42 PDT
Performing maintenance
Sorry about the hum on the system - we're trying to figure of why, & hope to solve the problem soon.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 13:17:10 PDT
Performing maintenance
Sorry everyone, we have a problem that we can't solve just now & have stopped streeaming for the moment.
Paul & Helena
28 Sep 2007 15:59:52 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are close to Critical Point, lots of calls & continuous echolocation... sounds like a whole lottafishin' goin' on!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 17:25:53 PDT
Performing maintenance
So sorry, but we're still unable to solve the hum problem. Will try again tomorrow. Meanwhile, the A30s are headed back to the west in Johnstone Strait. They're now probably somewhere around the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 20:32:32 PDT
Performing maintenance
We are still in maintenance mode but for the record the A30s are nearing Critical Point in Robson Bight. They have been moving back in this direction very slowly and may have not come furtheer west than east of Kaikash earlier.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 23:48:25 PDT
We've heard no more calls overnight & think it's possible that the last calls we heard, around 11:30pm, were from the A30s as they crossed Johnstone Strait towards Weynton Pass, heading "out" on the slack tide. However, there was terrible boat noise in both Johnstone Strait & Blackfish Sound at the time, so we aren't at all sure. It's a beuatiful morning here & the sun is just up... we are waiting.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 07:43:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have suddenly appeared off CP, lovely close calls!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 13:03:42 PDT
Performing maintenance
Sorry about the hum on the system - we're trying to figure of why, & hope to solve the problem soon.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 13:17:10 PDT
Performing maintenance
Sorry everyone, we have a problem that we can't solve just now & have stopped streeaming for the moment.
Paul & Helena
28 Sep 2007 15:59:52 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are close to Critical Point, lots of calls & continuous echolocation... sounds like a whole lottafishin' goin' on!
Helena
28 Sep 2007 17:25:53 PDT
Performing maintenance
So sorry, but we're still unable to solve the hum problem. Will try again tomorrow. Meanwhile, the A30s are headed back to the west in Johnstone Strait. They're now probably somewhere around the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 20:32:32 PDT
Performing maintenance
We are still in maintenance mode but for the record the A30s are nearing Critical Point in Robson Bight. They have been moving back in this direction very slowly and may have not come furtheer west than east of Kaikash earlier.
Helena
28 Sep 2007 23:48:25 PDT
Thursday, September 27, 2007
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 08:39:01 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We're hearing rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone, along with a few N3 calls... sounds like the A30s are back!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 15:50:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Up to the west - Robson Bight!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 16:19:52 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After passing closely to Critical Point, the A30s are carrying on to the west. Lots of unfortunate boat noise.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 17:09:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At the moment it is not clear what the A30s decided to do. Calls dropped off a while ago when they were still possibly west of Cracroft Point. Lovely full moon tonight opposite the Lab.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 20:00:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they are in western Johnstone Strait, possibly heading east. Persistent boat noise is present in the Strait also.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 23:26:40 PDT
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 08:39:01 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We're hearing rubbing sounds on the RB hydrophone, along with a few N3 calls... sounds like the A30s are back!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 15:50:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Up to the west - Robson Bight!
Helena
27 Sep 2007 16:19:52 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After passing closely to Critical Point, the A30s are carrying on to the west. Lots of unfortunate boat noise.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 17:09:04 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
At the moment it is not clear what the A30s decided to do. Calls dropped off a while ago when they were still possibly west of Cracroft Point. Lovely full moon tonight opposite the Lab.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 20:00:45 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We began hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone a short while ago. Sounds like they are in western Johnstone Strait, possibly heading east. Persistent boat noise is present in the Strait also.
Helena
27 Sep 2007 23:26:40 PDT
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Superb sounds!!
The A30s are back in Robson Bight.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 02:11:05 PDT
No orcas present.
A group of orcas is currently travelling east opposite the Eve River (east of the Ecological Reserve).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 09:33:26 PDT
No orcas present.
The group east of the Reserve was indeed the A30s At 12:30pm, they were continuing east from Hickey Point. Also today, there is a moderate sized group of Pacific Whitesided dolphins in Johnstone Strait and a lone elephat seal was spotted off Donegal Head this morning by the Gikumi (Stubbs Island).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 14:14:03 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s turned back to the west around 1pm (Naiad Explorer report) but we have yet to hear them come back into our area. It's possible they turned back to the east again, or have just been making their way slowly to the west. As is often the case, we are waiting.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 22:49:06 PDT
The A30s are back in Robson Bight.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 02:11:05 PDT
No orcas present.
A group of orcas is currently travelling east opposite the Eve River (east of the Ecological Reserve).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 09:33:26 PDT
No orcas present.
The group east of the Reserve was indeed the A30s At 12:30pm, they were continuing east from Hickey Point. Also today, there is a moderate sized group of Pacific Whitesided dolphins in Johnstone Strait and a lone elephat seal was spotted off Donegal Head this morning by the Gikumi (Stubbs Island).
Helena
26 Sep 2007 14:14:03 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s turned back to the west around 1pm (Naiad Explorer report) but we have yet to hear them come back into our area. It's possible they turned back to the east again, or have just been making their way slowly to the west. As is often the case, we are waiting.
Helena
26 Sep 2007 22:49:06 PDT
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are again calling in the area between Robson Bight and Cracroft Point.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 00:48:31 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It seems likely that the A30s have headed north through Blackney Pass on the beginning of the ebbing tide, and are now in Blackfish Sound. They are silent for the moment.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 04:20:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are travelling back south through Blackney Pass. They are silent so far.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 11:14:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s seem to be moving on towards Robson Bight now.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 12:08:47 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have reached Robson Bight & are now approaching Critical Point. Lovely calls, & echolocation too... sounds like at least some of them are having a bite in the Bight!
Helena
25 Sep 2007 13:48:58 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are in the midst of what sounds like a great rub.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 14:26:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The a30s are on their way back to the west opposite the Ecological Reserve. Earlier, they had gone east from the rubbing beaches.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 18:52:36 PDT
Performing maintenance
Our live stream has been down for a few hours, owing to a power failure. Please accept our apologies.
Helena & Paul
25 Sep 2007 19:49:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The latest theory is that the A30s continued to the west. They hesitated when they got to Little Kaikash and could be heard turning first, back to the east, and then soon after back to the west. This movement coincided with their burst of calls. Since then only their fading blows were heard to the west. The tide will continue to ebb until 1:30am.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 22:25:22 PDT
The A30s are again calling in the area between Robson Bight and Cracroft Point.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 00:48:31 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It seems likely that the A30s have headed north through Blackney Pass on the beginning of the ebbing tide, and are now in Blackfish Sound. They are silent for the moment.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 04:20:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are travelling back south through Blackney Pass. They are silent so far.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 11:14:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s seem to be moving on towards Robson Bight now.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 12:08:47 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have reached Robson Bight & are now approaching Critical Point. Lovely calls, & echolocation too... sounds like at least some of them are having a bite in the Bight!
Helena
25 Sep 2007 13:48:58 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are in the midst of what sounds like a great rub.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 14:26:36 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The a30s are on their way back to the west opposite the Ecological Reserve. Earlier, they had gone east from the rubbing beaches.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 18:52:36 PDT
Performing maintenance
Our live stream has been down for a few hours, owing to a power failure. Please accept our apologies.
Helena & Paul
25 Sep 2007 19:49:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The latest theory is that the A30s continued to the west. They hesitated when they got to Little Kaikash and could be heard turning first, back to the east, and then soon after back to the west. This movement coincided with their burst of calls. Since then only their fading blows were heard to the west. The tide will continue to ebb until 1:30am.
Helena
25 Sep 2007 22:25:22 PDT
Monday, September 24, 2007
No orcas present.
Once again, we heard no calls overnight & have heard no reports about orcas nearby. We are waiting.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 07:02:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Good News! The A30s are on their way back into the area. Currently they are north of Donegal Head in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are eastbound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 13:18:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are still in the same area north of Bold head and still just out of range of our system. They are calling (according to the whale watch boats with them ) as they are go back and forth. So perhaps soon...
Helena
24 Sep 2007 15:49:28 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just a few calls so far, in Blackfish Sound, but the A30s finally came into range, if only briefly.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 18:21:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A30s still chatty in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 19:56:57 PDT
Orcas near mics.
These lovely A30 calls are from the Parson Island station. The A30s must have travelled through behind the 2nd tug to travel Blackney to Johnstone Strait. Sounds like the whales are on their way to the Strait.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:47:25 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have made it to Johnstone Strait and are moving toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:56:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s continue into Johnstone Strait. There is still a lot of boat noise from the tugs unfortunately.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 22:08:21 PDT
Once again, we heard no calls overnight & have heard no reports about orcas nearby. We are waiting.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 07:02:28 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Good News! The A30s are on their way back into the area. Currently they are north of Donegal Head in Queen Charlotte Strait but they are eastbound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 13:18:14 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s are still in the same area north of Bold head and still just out of range of our system. They are calling (according to the whale watch boats with them ) as they are go back and forth. So perhaps soon...
Helena
24 Sep 2007 15:49:28 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Just a few calls so far, in Blackfish Sound, but the A30s finally came into range, if only briefly.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 18:21:58 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A30s still chatty in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 19:56:57 PDT
Orcas near mics.
These lovely A30 calls are from the Parson Island station. The A30s must have travelled through behind the 2nd tug to travel Blackney to Johnstone Strait. Sounds like the whales are on their way to the Strait.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:47:25 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s have made it to Johnstone Strait and are moving toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 21:56:04 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s continue into Johnstone Strait. There is still a lot of boat noise from the tugs unfortunately.
Helena
24 Sep 2007 22:08:21 PDT
Sunday, September 23, 2007
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
23 Sep 2007 09:40:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Recently there has been a fairly vocal group of dolphins close to Robson Bight. To the west the A30s were offfshore of Malcolm Island travelling toward the Mainland. The A36s were off Pine Island and another group of whales were westbound toward Goletas Channel.
Helena
23 Sep 2007 21:54:19 PDT
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
23 Sep 2007 09:40:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Recently there has been a fairly vocal group of dolphins close to Robson Bight. To the west the A30s were offfshore of Malcolm Island travelling toward the Mainland. The A36s were off Pine Island and another group of whales were westbound toward Goletas Channel.
Helena
23 Sep 2007 21:54:19 PDT
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Boat noise
We did not hear anything again through the night. Unfortunately, the Critical Point system had problems and was producing a noisy signal so listening was difficult at times. It is a quiet morning, the rain has eased and the winds calm.
Helena
22 Sep 2007 07:42:02 PDT
No orcas present.
Ah hah! The A30s are not to the east. We heard from the Naiad Explorer that the A30s are with the A36s off Doyle Island (near Port Hardy) foraging. Nice to know.
Helena
22 Sep 2007 12:00:41 PDT
We did not hear anything again through the night. Unfortunately, the Critical Point system had problems and was producing a noisy signal so listening was difficult at times. It is a quiet morning, the rain has eased and the winds calm.
Helena
22 Sep 2007 07:42:02 PDT
No orcas present.
Ah hah! The A30s are not to the east. We heard from the Naiad Explorer that the A30s are with the A36s off Doyle Island (near Port Hardy) foraging. Nice to know.
Helena
22 Sep 2007 12:00:41 PDT
Friday, September 21, 2007
No orcas present.
So far we are not aware of any news about the A30s. We did not hear any calls overnight - not even dolphins. Very rainy and wet this morning.
Helena
21 Sep 2007 09:07:07 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls at all today - sounds like the A30s have had a day off!
Helena
21 Sep 2007 22:31:55 PDT
So far we are not aware of any news about the A30s. We did not hear any calls overnight - not even dolphins. Very rainy and wet this morning.
Helena
21 Sep 2007 09:07:07 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls at all today - sounds like the A30s have had a day off!
Helena
21 Sep 2007 22:31:55 PDT
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Distant calls audible.
Just after 7am we began to hear echo locarion and calls on the Critical Point system. It sounds like the A30s may have arrived back from the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 07:14:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are moving up the middle of the Strait toward the CP area.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 09:09:07 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
The A30s have travelled through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. They were altogether until White Beach Pas. From then on, they were spread out as they continued north. Just a few calls and now some echo location.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 13:12:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have travelled through Weynton Pass toward Johnstone Strait. Meanwhile T14 was seen heading east from the Nimpkish River toward Johnstone Strait. This possible "confict" of interests was solved by T14 ducking into Weynton Pass as the A30s entered the Strait. He loks like he might head to Blackfish Sound. This was all done without any calls.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 17:07:58 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
T14 gave us a bit of a surprise. Despite being seen moving through Weynton Pass earlier after passing the A30s on their way to Johnstone Strait through the same passage, he must have doubled back. Tim at CP saw first saw him off the western tip of Hanson Island. From there he moved east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. He then went north into Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the resting A30s, contiued east against the Vancouver Island shore.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 19:48:10 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s sounded like they were fairly close to Robson Bight and may have alreay passed to the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 21:25:35 PDT
Just after 7am we began to hear echo locarion and calls on the Critical Point system. It sounds like the A30s may have arrived back from the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 07:14:42 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s are moving up the middle of the Strait toward the CP area.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 09:09:07 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
The A30s have travelled through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. They were altogether until White Beach Pas. From then on, they were spread out as they continued north. Just a few calls and now some echo location.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 13:12:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have travelled through Weynton Pass toward Johnstone Strait. Meanwhile T14 was seen heading east from the Nimpkish River toward Johnstone Strait. This possible "confict" of interests was solved by T14 ducking into Weynton Pass as the A30s entered the Strait. He loks like he might head to Blackfish Sound. This was all done without any calls.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 17:07:58 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
T14 gave us a bit of a surprise. Despite being seen moving through Weynton Pass earlier after passing the A30s on their way to Johnstone Strait through the same passage, he must have doubled back. Tim at CP saw first saw him off the western tip of Hanson Island. From there he moved east to the entrance of Blackney Pass. He then went north into Blackney Pass. Meanwhile, the resting A30s, contiued east against the Vancouver Island shore.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 19:48:10 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s sounded like they were fairly close to Robson Bight and may have alreay passed to the east.
Helena
20 Sep 2007 21:25:35 PDT
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
No orcas present.
A lovely quiet morning - even the wind has dropped. No reports and we only heard dolphins during the night. The Critical Point system has been fussy and noisy. Hopefully, this can be corrected. No reports about the A30s or the G25s.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 09:32:56 PDT
No orcas present.
More transient activity today. Earlier this morning, two groups were spotted travelling toward each other in the Retreat Pass area (off of Queen Charlotte Strait). One group of three came into Arrow Pass and met up with the group of four near the Fox islands. The whales then turned and have headed back through Arrow Pass. They are currently just at the mouth of Arrow. The group of dolphins we heard earlier west of Critical Point continued west and out Weynton Pass. They moved toward Mitchell Bay where they have stalled in company with a minke whale whose feeding has excited lots of birds. The A30s were again reported in Nodales Channel. No word on the G25s - have they left the area? Also, jim Borrowman saw 45 Sandhill Cranes fly overhead on his way to watch the transients.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 13:58:35 PDT
A lovely quiet morning - even the wind has dropped. No reports and we only heard dolphins during the night. The Critical Point system has been fussy and noisy. Hopefully, this can be corrected. No reports about the A30s or the G25s.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 09:32:56 PDT
No orcas present.
More transient activity today. Earlier this morning, two groups were spotted travelling toward each other in the Retreat Pass area (off of Queen Charlotte Strait). One group of three came into Arrow Pass and met up with the group of four near the Fox islands. The whales then turned and have headed back through Arrow Pass. They are currently just at the mouth of Arrow. The group of dolphins we heard earlier west of Critical Point continued west and out Weynton Pass. They moved toward Mitchell Bay where they have stalled in company with a minke whale whose feeding has excited lots of birds. The A30s were again reported in Nodales Channel. No word on the G25s - have they left the area? Also, jim Borrowman saw 45 Sandhill Cranes fly overhead on his way to watch the transients.
Helena
19 Sep 2007 13:58:35 PDT
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
No calls but orcas nearby
Just after 6am this morning we heard clear echo location followed by some crunching sounds. Unfortunatel, we were not able to source the sounds. A short while later, at 7:49am, we spotted a small group of transients opposite the Lab in Blackney Pass. They were going very slowly and changing directions but generally heading north. We lost track of them at 8:35am just as they crossed paths with a humpback going the opposite direction. The transients (later Id'd as the T55s) carried on into Blackfish Sound where the Gikumi continued the observations. No sign of the residents and these transients were a different group identified yesterday. Last night was remarkable for the humpback calls mixed in with the transient calls in Johnstone Strait around 9:50pm.
Helena
18 Sep 2007 10:17:39 PDT
No orcas present.
After the excitment of the transients in Blackney Pass (the T55s) early this morning we had to be content to follow their progress (or lack of it) for the rest of the day. For several hours this group moved back and forth off Stubbs Island in Weynton Passage. The A30s, meanwhile, were found in Nodales Channel (eastern Johnstone Strait). 100 dolphins, Dalls porpoise, sea lions, seals, myriad birds and humpbacks filled up the rest of the day.
Helena
18 Sep 2007 23:41:35 PDT
Just after 6am this morning we heard clear echo location followed by some crunching sounds. Unfortunatel, we were not able to source the sounds. A short while later, at 7:49am, we spotted a small group of transients opposite the Lab in Blackney Pass. They were going very slowly and changing directions but generally heading north. We lost track of them at 8:35am just as they crossed paths with a humpback going the opposite direction. The transients (later Id'd as the T55s) carried on into Blackfish Sound where the Gikumi continued the observations. No sign of the residents and these transients were a different group identified yesterday. Last night was remarkable for the humpback calls mixed in with the transient calls in Johnstone Strait around 9:50pm.
Helena
18 Sep 2007 10:17:39 PDT
No orcas present.
After the excitment of the transients in Blackney Pass (the T55s) early this morning we had to be content to follow their progress (or lack of it) for the rest of the day. For several hours this group moved back and forth off Stubbs Island in Weynton Passage. The A30s, meanwhile, were found in Nodales Channel (eastern Johnstone Strait). 100 dolphins, Dalls porpoise, sea lions, seals, myriad birds and humpbacks filled up the rest of the day.
Helena
18 Sep 2007 23:41:35 PDT
Monday, September 17, 2007
Distant calls audible.
These distant G clan resting calls are in Blackfish Sound. There is echo location as well so the whales may be headed toward Blackney Pass. Loud boat has made listening difficult for the time being.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 06:01:28 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A small group of whales (at least we saw only 4-5 in the dim morning light) have cleared Blackney Pass for Johnstone Strait. A few G calls as they rounded the corner and now noise from the tug going the same direction.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 07:21:39 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The calls have stopped for the moment. The group (part of the G17s?) have most likely moved away from Cracroft Point.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 07:31:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It did turn out to be part of the G17s - the G25s - they stalled mid strait off of CP and then came into Blackney Pass (part way) and then turned back toward Johnstone Strait. A group has also been seen further east off the Broken Islands. It may be the A30s although we last saw them heading into Blackfish Sound around 8pm. Recently, nothing would surprise us about the A30s travelling quietly around the area.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 11:09:15 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have arrived back at the east end of the Reserve (from the east). Meanwhile, we had a group of transients which included T68 & T68A - thanks to Jackie & Stubbs Island for the IDs) - head south through Blackney Pass to Cracroft Point. Just as the rub started the transients turned and began to head west.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 16:54:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have come west from the beaches. Meanwhile, the G25s turned up unexpectedly and briefly off CP. They must have come through Blackney Pass. They have been quite scattered and elusive all day but hopefully they now have connected with the A30s. They did seem to be "searching" ealier. No further word on the transients who were recently in Johnstone Strait as well.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 18:59:01 PDT
No orcas present.
If you are wondering what happened...you are not alone. The A30s and the G25s disappeared and we imagine that they went off to the east. However, there were no calls to support this or any other theory. The transients may have turned up once again off the entrance to Blackney, after a trip to the west, around 7:30pm. At least, there was a group of 6 that showed up there. From there, this group, went east along Cracroft Island. By 8pm, they were off the Sophia Islands.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 20:56:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We ave been listening to (mostly distant) transient calls in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 22:17:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The transients are still in Johnstone Strait calling in sporadic bouts. They came up toward the entrance of Blackney Pass earlier and then after a period of silence their calls seemed louder once again on the Critical Point system.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 23:58:53 PDT
These distant G clan resting calls are in Blackfish Sound. There is echo location as well so the whales may be headed toward Blackney Pass. Loud boat has made listening difficult for the time being.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 06:01:28 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A small group of whales (at least we saw only 4-5 in the dim morning light) have cleared Blackney Pass for Johnstone Strait. A few G calls as they rounded the corner and now noise from the tug going the same direction.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 07:21:39 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The calls have stopped for the moment. The group (part of the G17s?) have most likely moved away from Cracroft Point.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 07:31:05 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It did turn out to be part of the G17s - the G25s - they stalled mid strait off of CP and then came into Blackney Pass (part way) and then turned back toward Johnstone Strait. A group has also been seen further east off the Broken Islands. It may be the A30s although we last saw them heading into Blackfish Sound around 8pm. Recently, nothing would surprise us about the A30s travelling quietly around the area.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 11:09:15 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have arrived back at the east end of the Reserve (from the east). Meanwhile, we had a group of transients which included T68 & T68A - thanks to Jackie & Stubbs Island for the IDs) - head south through Blackney Pass to Cracroft Point. Just as the rub started the transients turned and began to head west.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 16:54:57 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have come west from the beaches. Meanwhile, the G25s turned up unexpectedly and briefly off CP. They must have come through Blackney Pass. They have been quite scattered and elusive all day but hopefully they now have connected with the A30s. They did seem to be "searching" ealier. No further word on the transients who were recently in Johnstone Strait as well.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 18:59:01 PDT
No orcas present.
If you are wondering what happened...you are not alone. The A30s and the G25s disappeared and we imagine that they went off to the east. However, there were no calls to support this or any other theory. The transients may have turned up once again off the entrance to Blackney, after a trip to the west, around 7:30pm. At least, there was a group of 6 that showed up there. From there, this group, went east along Cracroft Island. By 8pm, they were off the Sophia Islands.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 20:56:55 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We ave been listening to (mostly distant) transient calls in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 22:17:41 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The transients are still in Johnstone Strait calling in sporadic bouts. They came up toward the entrance of Blackney Pass earlier and then after a period of silence their calls seemed louder once again on the Critical Point system.
Helena
17 Sep 2007 23:58:53 PDT
Sunday, September 16, 2007
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 07:23:35 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s were found off of Stimpson Reef (opposite the Adam River) earlier this morning. They have been milling and resting. No word yet on any groups further west. A lovely humpback surprised us this morning. Swimming with sealions the whale came very close into shore in front of our bay. Quite dramatic. On another note: Sadly we said good-bye to Tomoko, Yumi and Momoko this morning. We would like to thank them for all their hard work, willing hands and cheerful friendship. Safe journey back home!
Helena & Paul
16 Sep 2007 11:38:41 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s, just a short while ago, have returned to the rubbing beaches from the east.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:16:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Brief rub on their way west.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:28:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have rounded Critical Point and into Robson Bight on what sounds like a fishing expedition.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:47:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s ARE moving westward but very slowly. They are resting off Izumi Rock (west of the western boundary).
Helena
16 Sep 2007 16:32:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s crossed the Strait with some enthusiasm toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 17:44:44 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, just after 7pm, entered Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They travelled north through to Blackfish Sound with one foraging stop along the way.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 20:38:25 PDT
We heard no calls overnight.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 07:23:35 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s were found off of Stimpson Reef (opposite the Adam River) earlier this morning. They have been milling and resting. No word yet on any groups further west. A lovely humpback surprised us this morning. Swimming with sealions the whale came very close into shore in front of our bay. Quite dramatic. On another note: Sadly we said good-bye to Tomoko, Yumi and Momoko this morning. We would like to thank them for all their hard work, willing hands and cheerful friendship. Safe journey back home!
Helena & Paul
16 Sep 2007 11:38:41 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s, just a short while ago, have returned to the rubbing beaches from the east.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:16:43 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Brief rub on their way west.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:28:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s have rounded Critical Point and into Robson Bight on what sounds like a fishing expedition.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 14:47:06 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s ARE moving westward but very slowly. They are resting off Izumi Rock (west of the western boundary).
Helena
16 Sep 2007 16:32:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s crossed the Strait with some enthusiasm toward Cracroft Point.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 17:44:44 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, just after 7pm, entered Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They travelled north through to Blackfish Sound with one foraging stop along the way.
Helena
16 Sep 2007 20:38:25 PDT
Saturday, September 15, 2007
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls overnight, and don't know what happened to the A30s after we last heard them west of Cracroft Point. We are waiting.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 09:48:53 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We just began to hear calls and rubs. The A30s must have returned to the east last night and are now making their way back to the west.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 10:05:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have passed through Robson Bight and are about half way from the wstern boundary of the Ecological Reserve to Izumi rock, heading west. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 12:03:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s once again got a s far as Little Kaiakash on the Vancouver Island side and then turned back to the east at 1:30pm. A38 had ventured toward CP as his group was moving west but soon crossed over to them just ahead of the turn.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 13:36:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are back close to Critical Point. Maybe they are thinking about an afternoon rub? Also, we have heard that the A36s have been seen closer to Pine Island in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:43:35 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Some serious fishing first!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:52:53 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like the A30s are having a nice afternoon rub!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 16:19:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth! The A30s are oposite Robson Bight once again. Rumours have it that there is now a large group of whales near Pine Island. hmmmmmmm......
Helena
15 Sep 2007 18:01:16 PDT
We've heard no calls overnight, and don't know what happened to the A30s after we last heard them west of Cracroft Point. We are waiting.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 09:48:53 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
We just began to hear calls and rubs. The A30s must have returned to the east last night and are now making their way back to the west.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 10:05:52 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have passed through Robson Bight and are about half way from the wstern boundary of the Ecological Reserve to Izumi rock, heading west. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 12:03:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s once again got a s far as Little Kaiakash on the Vancouver Island side and then turned back to the east at 1:30pm. A38 had ventured toward CP as his group was moving west but soon crossed over to them just ahead of the turn.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 13:36:49 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are back close to Critical Point. Maybe they are thinking about an afternoon rub? Also, we have heard that the A36s have been seen closer to Pine Island in Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:43:35 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Some serious fishing first!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 15:52:53 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Sounds like the A30s are having a nice afternoon rub!
Helena
15 Sep 2007 16:19:31 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth! The A30s are oposite Robson Bight once again. Rumours have it that there is now a large group of whales near Pine Island. hmmmmmmm......
Helena
15 Sep 2007 18:01:16 PDT
Friday, September 14, 2007
Distant calls audible.
We have been listening to the A30s arrive back in Johnstone Strait sfter their trip to the inlets.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 05:57:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Slowly.... moving on toward the Reserve.We first heard A30 calls just after 4am. The morning is again foggy.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 06:57:21 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have reached the rubbung beaches.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 08:48:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are back to the area off Robson Bight heading west. Meanwhile, a small group of transients have come out of Queen Charlotte Strait and are headed toward the Plumpers at the western end of Hanson Island.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 10:12:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have turned back to the east again & are just inside the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 13:37:03 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are in Robson Bight. close to Critical Point.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:23:12 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are back at the rubing beaches. It's their 2nd session today.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:55:45 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Back to the Bight!
Helena
14 Sep 2007 15:37:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've been hearing occasional distant calls from the A30s, on the Critical Point hydrophone, as they made their way to the west from Robson Bight on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, foraging along the way. They were last sighted just before dark (from CP) off Blinhorn, spread out off Vancouver Island. It's possible they will turn around soon & head back east, or they could head "out" on the swiftly ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 20:27:34 PDT
We have been listening to the A30s arrive back in Johnstone Strait sfter their trip to the inlets.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 05:57:20 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Slowly.... moving on toward the Reserve.We first heard A30 calls just after 4am. The morning is again foggy.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 06:57:21 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have reached the rubbung beaches.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 08:48:26 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are back to the area off Robson Bight heading west. Meanwhile, a small group of transients have come out of Queen Charlotte Strait and are headed toward the Plumpers at the western end of Hanson Island.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 10:12:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s have turned back to the east again & are just inside the western boundary of the Ecological Reserve. For the moment, they are silent.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 13:37:03 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are in Robson Bight. close to Critical Point.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:23:12 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are back at the rubing beaches. It's their 2nd session today.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 14:55:45 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Back to the Bight!
Helena
14 Sep 2007 15:37:47 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We've been hearing occasional distant calls from the A30s, on the Critical Point hydrophone, as they made their way to the west from Robson Bight on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, foraging along the way. They were last sighted just before dark (from CP) off Blinhorn, spread out off Vancouver Island. It's possible they will turn around soon & head back east, or they could head "out" on the swiftly ebbing tide.
Helena
14 Sep 2007 20:27:34 PDT
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Boat noise
The night was quiet after the A30s crossed Blackfish Sound toward Queen Charlotte Strait. Very foggy again this morning.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 07:41:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
So far there have not been any visual sightings ,although, calls were heard, in the fog, in Queen Charlotte Strait. Blackney andJohnstone Strait are both clear now.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 12:11:40 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s did a surprise move today by heading into Fife Sound and on to Tribune Channel (part of the knight Inlet system). They dod not go this route very often but it was a lovely day and maybe the inlets seemed like a good choice!
Helena
13 Sep 2007 19:17:04 PDT
The night was quiet after the A30s crossed Blackfish Sound toward Queen Charlotte Strait. Very foggy again this morning.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 07:41:20 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
So far there have not been any visual sightings ,although, calls were heard, in the fog, in Queen Charlotte Strait. Blackney andJohnstone Strait are both clear now.
Helena
13 Sep 2007 12:11:40 PDT
No orcas present.
The A30s did a surprise move today by heading into Fife Sound and on to Tribune Channel (part of the knight Inlet system). They dod not go this route very often but it was a lovely day and maybe the inlets seemed like a good choice!
Helena
13 Sep 2007 19:17:04 PDT
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
No orcas present.
We heard no calls overnight & don't know what happened to the A30s after we lost track of them early yesterday evening.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 08:14:47 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who had headed east in Johnstone Strait last night, are returning to the west. They are now on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, past Naka Creek, and approaching the eastern boundary of the Reserve. One of the males, A38 or A39, is mid-strait. It's possible that the A30s will head into the rubbing beaches soon. (Report from Naiad Explorer).
Helena
12 Sep 2007 14:38:44 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Some of them (just a few) had a brief rub on their way west. Boat noise is persistent in the background.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 15:45:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s, all together, are off Kaikash Creek heading west.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 17:37:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have turned back to he east but whether or not they come all the way is still uncertain. They are calling quite frequently.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:01:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s went out via Weynton Pass. They are now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:32:01 PDT
We heard no calls overnight & don't know what happened to the A30s after we lost track of them early yesterday evening.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 08:14:47 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s, who had headed east in Johnstone Strait last night, are returning to the west. They are now on the Vancouver Island side of the Strait, past Naka Creek, and approaching the eastern boundary of the Reserve. One of the males, A38 or A39, is mid-strait. It's possible that the A30s will head into the rubbing beaches soon. (Report from Naiad Explorer).
Helena
12 Sep 2007 14:38:44 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Some of them (just a few) had a brief rub on their way west. Boat noise is persistent in the background.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 15:45:22 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s, all together, are off Kaikash Creek heading west.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 17:37:07 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s have turned back to he east but whether or not they come all the way is still uncertain. They are calling quite frequently.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:01:34 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A30s went out via Weynton Pass. They are now in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
12 Sep 2007 21:32:01 PDT
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Superb sounds!!
Humpback in Blackfish Sound!
Helena & Tomoko
11 Sep 2007 00:46:50 PDT
No orcas present.
At 3:15am this morning the A30s were back at the rubbing beaches and then later near Critical Point. It seemed like the A30s did not go any further. The last we heard was at 5am. Our last impression was that they had turned around and moved back eastward.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 08:21:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We heard a few distant calls from the A30s about half an hour ago, when they were in the fog at the "top" of Blackfish Sound. It seems they headed "out" on the ebbing tide early this morning, though we're not sure of their route, & are now headed back into the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 11:45:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're now hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like they have made it into the Strait (via Weynton Pass) and are headed east.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 12:00:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Moving on - the A30s have travelled east along Vancouver Island toward the Ecological Reserve. Back off Kaikash and the entrance of Blackney Pass A39 looked like he would travel over to CP. Instead he crossedto the others who were approaching Kaikash. It was from there that the group continued east together.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 14:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have reached the rubbing beaches!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 15:34:32 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
a little rub and now a bite to eat in the Bight!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 16:22:47 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Again the A30s are proving a bit elusive. They have grown very quiet and visually CP lost track of them near Kaikash.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 19:37:59 PDT
Humpback in Blackfish Sound!
Helena & Tomoko
11 Sep 2007 00:46:50 PDT
No orcas present.
At 3:15am this morning the A30s were back at the rubbing beaches and then later near Critical Point. It seemed like the A30s did not go any further. The last we heard was at 5am. Our last impression was that they had turned around and moved back eastward.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 08:21:42 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
We heard a few distant calls from the A30s about half an hour ago, when they were in the fog at the "top" of Blackfish Sound. It seems they headed "out" on the ebbing tide early this morning, though we're not sure of their route, & are now headed back into the Strait via Weynton Pass.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 11:45:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're now hearing distant calls from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Sounds like they have made it into the Strait (via Weynton Pass) and are headed east.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 12:00:56 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Moving on - the A30s have travelled east along Vancouver Island toward the Ecological Reserve. Back off Kaikash and the entrance of Blackney Pass A39 looked like he would travel over to CP. Instead he crossedto the others who were approaching Kaikash. It was from there that the group continued east together.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 14:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s have reached the rubbing beaches!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 15:34:32 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
a little rub and now a bite to eat in the Bight!
Helena
11 Sep 2007 16:22:47 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Again the A30s are proving a bit elusive. They have grown very quiet and visually CP lost track of them near Kaikash.
Helena
11 Sep 2007 19:37:59 PDT
Monday, September 10, 2007
No orcas present.
We did not hear any calls overnight. Very foggy this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 07:06:15 PDT
No orcas present.
The fog is lifting in very pretty patterns. The a30s have been located near the Broken Islands (east of West cracroft Island) heading west.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 11:06:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Over the past few hours, they made their way to the west, mostly on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, then they crossed over to the Vancouver Island side & are now in Robson Bight, headed back east again.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 17:58:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are rubbing!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 18:34:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s finished their evening rub and headed off to the east.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:18:58 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A few more calls and then some major Blackney Pass distractions. Three humpbacks surrounded by dolphins and a few sealions are headed north "together".
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:59:03 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back from the beaches!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 20:21:26 PDT
We did not hear any calls overnight. Very foggy this morning.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 07:06:15 PDT
No orcas present.
The fog is lifting in very pretty patterns. The a30s have been located near the Broken Islands (east of West cracroft Island) heading west.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 11:06:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing close calls & echolocation from the A30s on the Critical Point hydrophone. Over the past few hours, they made their way to the west, mostly on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, then they crossed over to the Vancouver Island side & are now in Robson Bight, headed back east again.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 17:58:38 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The A30s are rubbing!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 18:34:54 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The A30s finished their evening rub and headed off to the east.
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:18:58 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A few more calls and then some major Blackney Pass distractions. Three humpbacks surrounded by dolphins and a few sealions are headed north "together".
Helena
10 Sep 2007 19:59:03 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back from the beaches!
Helena
10 Sep 2007 20:21:26 PDT
Sunday, September 09, 2007
No orcas present.
It was an uneventful orca night but the dolphins continued from time to time in Johnstone Strait and in Blackney, we had three humpbacks fill the air with their breaths. The night was clear and starry, this morning grey and calm.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 08:26:36 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A group of transients (yet to be identified) are off Izumi Rock (west of the Reserve). A group of dolphins is not too far away, off of the Sophias. The A30s are most likely off the Broken Island.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 10:53:26 PDT
No orcas present.
The transients turned out to be the T46 group once again. They went up to Weynton Pass and had a bite to eat (seal) and carried on. The A30s at 3pm were back off the Broken Island group. Meanwhile, sealions, humpbacks and myriad birds have kept us busy for the afternoon.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:09:17 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
? the A30s rubbing.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:53:39 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are off Critical Point after the beaches. Very nice echo location!
Helena
09 Sep 2007 18:16:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Not really sure what happened to the A30s. They were laast seen east of Kaikash around 6:45pm. They were still westbound on the ebb tide.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 21:00:31 PDT
It was an uneventful orca night but the dolphins continued from time to time in Johnstone Strait and in Blackney, we had three humpbacks fill the air with their breaths. The night was clear and starry, this morning grey and calm.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 08:26:36 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
A group of transients (yet to be identified) are off Izumi Rock (west of the Reserve). A group of dolphins is not too far away, off of the Sophias. The A30s are most likely off the Broken Island.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 10:53:26 PDT
No orcas present.
The transients turned out to be the T46 group once again. They went up to Weynton Pass and had a bite to eat (seal) and carried on. The A30s at 3pm were back off the Broken Island group. Meanwhile, sealions, humpbacks and myriad birds have kept us busy for the afternoon.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:09:17 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
? the A30s rubbing.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 17:53:39 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s are off Critical Point after the beaches. Very nice echo location!
Helena
09 Sep 2007 18:16:33 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
Not really sure what happened to the A30s. They were laast seen east of Kaikash around 6:45pm. They were still westbound on the ebb tide.
Helena
09 Sep 2007 21:00:31 PDT
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Friday, September 07, 2007
No orcas present.
We heard no orca calls overnight, though Pacific whitesided doplhins were often vocal within range of our hydrophones.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 07:40:12 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Someone has come back from the east and has just rounded Critical Point!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:10:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It is A1s and dolphins too.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:24:59 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It is the A30s. Yesterday evening they were westbound off Chatham Point (the most eastern corner of Johnstone Strait) at 6pm. That is quite a hike!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 09:14:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s moved up to Cracroft Point, where after a short rest, they have begun to vocalise.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 10:46:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After turning to the east off of Hanson Island's Turn Point at 1:18pm, the A30s went back to the Cracroft Point area to continue their forage.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 15:09:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Just when you feel the day is slow and easy... just one group in the area, busy feeding,relaxed.... when, surprise! Offshores coming from the west. The A30s are getting closer to Critical Point.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 16:21:53 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The Offshores are in Blackney Pass but moving very slowly south against the tide.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 18:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
The Offshores retreated to the northwest after a long attempt to come through Blackney Pass. They have been quiet for some time now.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 20:35:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The offshores are calling once again in Blackfish Sound. Still trying for Blackney?
Helena
07 Sep 2007 20:44:47 PDT
No orcas present.
Again the offfshore calls disappeared after becoming very distant on Flower Island.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 22:54:56 PDT
We heard no orca calls overnight, though Pacific whitesided doplhins were often vocal within range of our hydrophones.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 07:40:12 PDT
Orcas hunting fish.
Someone has come back from the east and has just rounded Critical Point!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:10:15 PDT
Orcas near mics.
It is A1s and dolphins too.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 08:24:59 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
It is the A30s. Yesterday evening they were westbound off Chatham Point (the most eastern corner of Johnstone Strait) at 6pm. That is quite a hike!
Helena
07 Sep 2007 09:14:04 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The A30s moved up to Cracroft Point, where after a short rest, they have begun to vocalise.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 10:46:09 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After turning to the east off of Hanson Island's Turn Point at 1:18pm, the A30s went back to the Cracroft Point area to continue their forage.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 15:09:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Just when you feel the day is slow and easy... just one group in the area, busy feeding,relaxed.... when, surprise! Offshores coming from the west. The A30s are getting closer to Critical Point.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 16:21:53 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The Offshores are in Blackney Pass but moving very slowly south against the tide.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 18:27:48 PDT
No orcas present.
The Offshores retreated to the northwest after a long attempt to come through Blackney Pass. They have been quiet for some time now.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 20:35:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The offshores are calling once again in Blackfish Sound. Still trying for Blackney?
Helena
07 Sep 2007 20:44:47 PDT
No orcas present.
Again the offfshore calls disappeared after becoming very distant on Flower Island.
Helena
07 Sep 2007 22:54:56 PDT
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Distant calls audible.
A little bit handicapped last night with Critical Point down. However, there was movement. Just after midnight we had close A5 calls in the entrance of Blackney Pass. After a gap of 20 minutes we then began to hear A4s approach the entrance from the Johnstone Strait side. A group (the A4s?) travelled through Blackney to the north. Much later there was a brief but intense rub at the beaches. This morning, a male transient (T14) has been sighted off Weynton Island. Other blows have been sighted towards Blinkhorn, and T14 has turned toward this vocal group. Just now we are hearing distant transient calls continue in Johnstone Strait.(Critical is working again).
Helena
06 Sep 2007 09:22:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The transients were identified by Jared Towers as T14, T41, T44, and the T37s (who have not been seen very many times before). This group is past Port McNeill now andstill headed west. A wealth of humpbacks in the area. There is a steady count of 5 in the immediate area and probably others in Queen Charlotte Strait etc.
Helena
06 Sep 2007 13:45:58 PDT
No orcas present.
An amazingly uneventful rest of the day! There are whales still to the east although we had no updates today about what happened below. And no word about any resident activity to the west. The morning transients kept going west and the humpbacks kept going in circles. This day is almost done.
Helena
06 Sep 2007 23:11:21 PDT
A little bit handicapped last night with Critical Point down. However, there was movement. Just after midnight we had close A5 calls in the entrance of Blackney Pass. After a gap of 20 minutes we then began to hear A4s approach the entrance from the Johnstone Strait side. A group (the A4s?) travelled through Blackney to the north. Much later there was a brief but intense rub at the beaches. This morning, a male transient (T14) has been sighted off Weynton Island. Other blows have been sighted towards Blinkhorn, and T14 has turned toward this vocal group. Just now we are hearing distant transient calls continue in Johnstone Strait.(Critical is working again).
Helena
06 Sep 2007 09:22:32 PDT
No orcas present.
The transients were identified by Jared Towers as T14, T41, T44, and the T37s (who have not been seen very many times before). This group is past Port McNeill now andstill headed west. A wealth of humpbacks in the area. There is a steady count of 5 in the immediate area and probably others in Queen Charlotte Strait etc.
Helena
06 Sep 2007 13:45:58 PDT
No orcas present.
An amazingly uneventful rest of the day! There are whales still to the east although we had no updates today about what happened below. And no word about any resident activity to the west. The morning transients kept going west and the humpbacks kept going in circles. This day is almost done.
Helena
06 Sep 2007 23:11:21 PDT
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Multiple pod calls audible.
Groups are streaming off to the west: First the Rs (they stayed on the Johnstone Strait side going west) and then the A36s with the I15s (who just went north in Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound). An I31 and/ or I11 group is currently approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. All this and a touch of northeern lights too. We have not heard any A4,A5, A12 or A30 calls yet.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 02:39:11 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls for several hours, though our Critical Point hydrophone is down & we're deaf in Robson Bight.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 08:18:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I33s are headed west, on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, opposite Robson Bight. They are silent, for the moment (CrPt is working again).
Helena
05 Sep 2007 09:48:26 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A short while ago we began to hear A4 and A5 calls close to Critical Point. Thse are groups coming up from the east and westbound. Unfortunately, the Critical Point hydrophone has developed a problem and it is hard to listen. Fortunately, the groups are beginning to be heard on the CP system.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 17:30:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We think the A4 group followed the A5 group to the west.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 18:55:22 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Nope, the A4s did not go far. They are back on CP and not far from the entrance of Blackney Pass.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 19:06:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting, on the last post I accidently clicked on Flower Island. A little bit early but the A35s made it true. They have gone through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, a different A4 group is heading west in the Strait. We have not heard A5s for a while.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 20:51:34 PDT
Hi Paul & Helena, We saw the A36's and the I15's pass Bere Point close to shore, all mostly resting at 17:15. When we left camp they had'nt made it to Black Bluff yet at 18:00. They were eastbound, still real slow as Bill had reported earlier. Take Care Troy & Kate
Troy@Bere Point
05 Sep 2007 21:47:17 PDT
Groups are streaming off to the west: First the Rs (they stayed on the Johnstone Strait side going west) and then the A36s with the I15s (who just went north in Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound). An I31 and/ or I11 group is currently approaching the entrance to Blackney Pass on the Johnstone Strait side. All this and a touch of northeern lights too. We have not heard any A4,A5, A12 or A30 calls yet.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 02:39:11 PDT
No orcas present.
We've heard no calls for several hours, though our Critical Point hydrophone is down & we're deaf in Robson Bight.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 08:18:30 PDT
No calls but orcas nearby
The I33s are headed west, on the Cracroft Island side of the Strait, opposite Robson Bight. They are silent, for the moment (CrPt is working again).
Helena
05 Sep 2007 09:48:26 PDT
Distant calls audible.
A short while ago we began to hear A4 and A5 calls close to Critical Point. Thse are groups coming up from the east and westbound. Unfortunately, the Critical Point hydrophone has developed a problem and it is hard to listen. Fortunately, the groups are beginning to be heard on the CP system.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 17:30:57 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We think the A4 group followed the A5 group to the west.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 18:55:22 PDT
Orcas near mics.
Nope, the A4s did not go far. They are back on CP and not far from the entrance of Blackney Pass.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 19:06:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Interesting, on the last post I accidently clicked on Flower Island. A little bit early but the A35s made it true. They have gone through Blackney Pass and into Blackfish Sound. Meanwhile, a different A4 group is heading west in the Strait. We have not heard A5s for a while.
Helena
05 Sep 2007 20:51:34 PDT
Hi Paul & Helena, We saw the A36's and the I15's pass Bere Point close to shore, all mostly resting at 17:15. When we left camp they had'nt made it to Black Bluff yet at 18:00. They were eastbound, still real slow as Bill had reported earlier. Take Care Troy & Kate
Troy@Bere Point
05 Sep 2007 21:47:17 PDT
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
No orcas present.
Sorry, ity has been a while since we have posted a comment. This morning a small group of transients (the T101s) travelled west in Johnstone Strait from Robson Bight to points west. They were travelling quite fast. Meanwhile, the humpbacks, Chunky and Stripe returned to the area for the first time this year, coming out of Queen Charlotte Strait to Blackfish Sound. There they found 100+ dolphins and at least 80 sealions. A busy day despite the fact that the large 100+ residents remained in the east for the day. The good news from below is that since 1:45pm they are westbound from Ripple Point - Tonight sometime?
Helena
04 Sep 2007 15:15:40 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We have "new" visitors! Just now other members of G clan, including the G17s, are vocal on the Critical Point system. We are still working out how they might have come in.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 21:46:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The timing is lovely! The Rs are back from the east, just in time, to intersect with the new arrivals.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 21:57:06 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We are scratching our heads a bit. All the calls, including those of the G17s, sound like they are east of CP and closer to Critical Point. How and when did they actually come in? And what direction are they going? The Rs took over the conversation once they rounded Critical Point and after a short period of quieter calls, they have both got going once again.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 22:22:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the exchange between the Rs and the Gs near the Reserve, the Rs have moved west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are a bit spread out. We are not sure just what happened to the Gs. They are a bit of a mystery still.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 23:53:24 PDT
Sorry, ity has been a while since we have posted a comment. This morning a small group of transients (the T101s) travelled west in Johnstone Strait from Robson Bight to points west. They were travelling quite fast. Meanwhile, the humpbacks, Chunky and Stripe returned to the area for the first time this year, coming out of Queen Charlotte Strait to Blackfish Sound. There they found 100+ dolphins and at least 80 sealions. A busy day despite the fact that the large 100+ residents remained in the east for the day. The good news from below is that since 1:45pm they are westbound from Ripple Point - Tonight sometime?
Helena
04 Sep 2007 15:15:40 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We have "new" visitors! Just now other members of G clan, including the G17s, are vocal on the Critical Point system. We are still working out how they might have come in.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 21:46:02 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The timing is lovely! The Rs are back from the east, just in time, to intersect with the new arrivals.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 21:57:06 PDT
Superb sounds!!
We are scratching our heads a bit. All the calls, including those of the G17s, sound like they are east of CP and closer to Critical Point. How and when did they actually come in? And what direction are they going? The Rs took over the conversation once they rounded Critical Point and after a short period of quieter calls, they have both got going once again.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 22:22:16 PDT
Distant calls audible.
After the exchange between the Rs and the Gs near the Reserve, the Rs have moved west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are a bit spread out. We are not sure just what happened to the Gs. They are a bit of a mystery still.
Helena
04 Sep 2007 23:53:24 PDT
Monday, September 03, 2007
Superb sounds!!
The A36s, A4s, A5s and the I15s met up the A30s when they entered the strait. All the whales headed east to the Bight, sounds like having nice time in there.
Tomoko
03 Sep 2007 00:46:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We began hearing calls about 5am, & since then have heard the I15s & A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone, so they're in or near Robson Bight . As well, we're hearing the A12s, who are in Blackfish Sound & seem to be heading towards Johnstone Strait. The I15s, A36s & others (A4s, A5s) were headed east in Johnstone Strait by 1am, so it sounds like at least some of these groups are returning to the west now.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 05:59:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s ventured into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass between 5:45 and 6:15am. There they were greeted by the I15s and the A36s who had come west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are still not far from this area and still closer to the Vancouver Island side rather than Cracroft.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 08:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s and the A12s are off the entrance to Weynton Pass. They are spread out and foraging. A few are pointing in toward Weynton Pass. meanwhile, the A36s are east of these groups, closer to the entrance of Blackney Pass a short while ago. A small group of transients were spotted travelling west along Cracroft Island from Boat Bay, past the Cliff and off toward the Sophia Islands. Busy, busy, busy.....
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:00:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The T10s just came into Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They dove when opposite the Lab and we lost track of them. Meanwhile, the A12s and I15s have gone through Weynton Pass and are off the western end of Blackfish Sound. We are waiting to find out if the A36s went with them and to see if the calls of the residents will affect the movements of the transients.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:56:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're beginning to hear distant "R" clan calls on the Flower Island hydrophone, as they head quickly towards Johnstone Strait from Queen Charlotte Strait. Begind them are some of the I31s. & meeting them are the A36s, I15s & A12s, who turned back to the west in mid Blackfish a short while ago. This is shaping up to be quite a social day!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 12:47:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looks like all of R clan has arrived, along with the I11s, so there are now well over 100 orcas heading towards Johnstone Strait. They are stalled at the north end of Weynton Pass, between Stubbs Island & the Plumpers, probably waiting for the ebbing tide to slow or reverse before they head on into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 14:09:41 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Many but not all of the groups are now in Johnstone Strait, heading east. We're listening to very excited "A" & "G-I" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possible some of the Rs are already in the Strait, but a lot of orcas are still in Weynton Pass, so they probably include most of the Rs. Whichever way you stir it, it's getting to be orca soup in the Strait!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 15:21:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the Rs came into the Strait the groups who had preceded became vocal and began to move eastward. We are now listening to the A12s, I11s, A36s, I15s, I31s and Rs. Quite the gang. To the east should still be the A30s, A4sand A5s.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 16:49:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And they keep on moving. The Rs and some of the A12s are following the others past CP and on toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 17:46:15 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The R clan calls are now louder on Critical Point and, with the calls of the G and A clan groups, a lovely mix is happening.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And rubbing too!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:40:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs have joined the I15s and othersat the beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 19:01:59 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups kept heading to the east in Johnstone Strait after their great session(s) at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 22:15:27 PDT
The A36s, A4s, A5s and the I15s met up the A30s when they entered the strait. All the whales headed east to the Bight, sounds like having nice time in there.
Tomoko
03 Sep 2007 00:46:16 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
We began hearing calls about 5am, & since then have heard the I15s & A36s on the Critical Point hydrophone, so they're in or near Robson Bight . As well, we're hearing the A12s, who are in Blackfish Sound & seem to be heading towards Johnstone Strait. The I15s, A36s & others (A4s, A5s) were headed east in Johnstone Strait by 1am, so it sounds like at least some of these groups are returning to the west now.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 05:59:25 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A12s ventured into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Pass between 5:45 and 6:15am. There they were greeted by the I15s and the A36s who had come west to the entrance of Blackney Pass. They are still not far from this area and still closer to the Vancouver Island side rather than Cracroft.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 08:13:38 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The I15s and the A12s are off the entrance to Weynton Pass. They are spread out and foraging. A few are pointing in toward Weynton Pass. meanwhile, the A36s are east of these groups, closer to the entrance of Blackney Pass a short while ago. A small group of transients were spotted travelling west along Cracroft Island from Boat Bay, past the Cliff and off toward the Sophia Islands. Busy, busy, busy.....
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:00:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The T10s just came into Blackney Pass from Johnstone Strait. They dove when opposite the Lab and we lost track of them. Meanwhile, the A12s and I15s have gone through Weynton Pass and are off the western end of Blackfish Sound. We are waiting to find out if the A36s went with them and to see if the calls of the residents will affect the movements of the transients.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 10:56:29 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We're beginning to hear distant "R" clan calls on the Flower Island hydrophone, as they head quickly towards Johnstone Strait from Queen Charlotte Strait. Begind them are some of the I31s. & meeting them are the A36s, I15s & A12s, who turned back to the west in mid Blackfish a short while ago. This is shaping up to be quite a social day!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 12:47:39 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
It looks like all of R clan has arrived, along with the I11s, so there are now well over 100 orcas heading towards Johnstone Strait. They are stalled at the north end of Weynton Pass, between Stubbs Island & the Plumpers, probably waiting for the ebbing tide to slow or reverse before they head on into Johnstone Strait.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 14:09:41 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
Many but not all of the groups are now in Johnstone Strait, heading east. We're listening to very excited "A" & "G-I" calls on the Critical Point hydrophone. It's possible some of the Rs are already in the Strait, but a lot of orcas are still in Weynton Pass, so they probably include most of the Rs. Whichever way you stir it, it's getting to be orca soup in the Strait!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 15:21:48 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
After the Rs came into the Strait the groups who had preceded became vocal and began to move eastward. We are now listening to the A12s, I11s, A36s, I15s, I31s and Rs. Quite the gang. To the east should still be the A30s, A4sand A5s.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 16:49:53 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
And they keep on moving. The Rs and some of the A12s are following the others past CP and on toward the Ecological Reserve.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 17:46:15 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The R clan calls are now louder on Critical Point and, with the calls of the G and A clan groups, a lovely mix is happening.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:35:04 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
And rubbing too!
Helena
03 Sep 2007 18:40:30 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
The Rs have joined the I15s and othersat the beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 19:01:59 PDT
No orcas present.
We think the various groups kept heading to the east in Johnstone Strait after their great session(s) at the rubbing beaches.
Helena
03 Sep 2007 22:15:27 PDT
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Distant calls audible.
a little while ago we started hearing resting calls on FI hydrophone.
Tomoko
02 Sep 2007 04:38:55 PDT
No orcas present.
At 4:18am faint A1 calls (the A30s) were heard on Flower Island. An hour later there were blows in Blackney Pass but they were heading north on the farside. The weather and a procession of cruiseships made further tracking impossible. At 7:30am two faint A1 calls were heard again but we did not get a chance to locate the source. Just a few minutes ago we started hearing a lot of calls (A4s/5) distant on Critical Point. The whales are westbound in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 08:39:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These whales are determined. An A5 group is already up to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A4s are more distant.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 08:43:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Adding to the list of whales coming up from below are the I15s and the A36s. All groups are westbound.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 09:06:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales are not very vocal at the moment BUT there has been a lot of movement. The A36s, A11s, the A25s , A23s and I15s returned to the CP area (and were vocal about it) while the A30s slowly continued their way through Blackfish Sound favouring the hanson Island side. Then in front of the Lab the groups passed by each other. Led by the A36s, the I15s, A23s and A25s and finally the A11s (small group including Springer) came into Blackney Pass as seperate close knit groups. The a30s were tight together and as the others neared they spy hopped and slowed down but continued on their way back to Johnstone Strait. The others continued in the opposite direction and into Blackfish Sound where the I15s managed a few calls. Very windy today.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 14:29:39 PDT
Orcas near mics.
one loud call alerted us that the a30s were not far from Critical Point. It sounds like they may be on their way west. At the other end of the area, the A36s and others are having an exciting time of it in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 19:49:08 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing A4 & I15 calls on our Local Left hydrophone. Sounds like at least these groups are returning to the Strait via Blackney Pass.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 21:14:00 PDT
a little while ago we started hearing resting calls on FI hydrophone.
Tomoko
02 Sep 2007 04:38:55 PDT
No orcas present.
At 4:18am faint A1 calls (the A30s) were heard on Flower Island. An hour later there were blows in Blackney Pass but they were heading north on the farside. The weather and a procession of cruiseships made further tracking impossible. At 7:30am two faint A1 calls were heard again but we did not get a chance to locate the source. Just a few minutes ago we started hearing a lot of calls (A4s/5) distant on Critical Point. The whales are westbound in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 08:39:13 PDT
Distant calls audible.
These whales are determined. An A5 group is already up to the entrance of Blackney Pass. The A4s are more distant.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 08:43:00 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Adding to the list of whales coming up from below are the I15s and the A36s. All groups are westbound.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 09:06:52 PDT
Multiple pod calls audible.
The whales are not very vocal at the moment BUT there has been a lot of movement. The A36s, A11s, the A25s , A23s and I15s returned to the CP area (and were vocal about it) while the A30s slowly continued their way through Blackfish Sound favouring the hanson Island side. Then in front of the Lab the groups passed by each other. Led by the A36s, the I15s, A23s and A25s and finally the A11s (small group including Springer) came into Blackney Pass as seperate close knit groups. The a30s were tight together and as the others neared they spy hopped and slowed down but continued on their way back to Johnstone Strait. The others continued in the opposite direction and into Blackfish Sound where the I15s managed a few calls. Very windy today.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 14:29:39 PDT
Orcas near mics.
one loud call alerted us that the a30s were not far from Critical Point. It sounds like they may be on their way west. At the other end of the area, the A36s and others are having an exciting time of it in Blackfish Sound.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 19:49:08 PDT
Orcas near mics.
We're hearing A4 & I15 calls on our Local Left hydrophone. Sounds like at least these groups are returning to the Strait via Blackney Pass.
Helena
02 Sep 2007 21:14:00 PDT
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Superb sounds!!
And the A36s for company. The whales are just coming into Blackney Pass. The full moon is hiding behind the clouds but still casting light on the misty calm ocean.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 00:11:26 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and the I15s are moving quickly to the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 01:19:09 PDT
No orcas present.
Good Morning! The A36s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. They rubbed from 3:02am to 4:16am. They last calls we heard were at 5:02am. Thank you Yumi for staying with that marathon - all yesterday and through the night. There were audible dolphins in the early morning.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 08:13:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are hearing A1 calls once more on Critical Point. A while before they were passing the rubbing beaches headed west.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:23:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s just rounded the corner at Critical Point. Sounds like they are not alone. The beginning of the parade?
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:29:36 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are very close to Cracroft Point, the A4s sound like they are over closer to Vancouver Island. We have also heard A30s, A36s and A5s.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 10:24:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Well the whales went west, and then turned at the top end of Hanson Island, and then they went all the way back, past Critical Point and then down to the rubbing beaches where an A1 group is now rubbing.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 13:59:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. Since the last poste the whales have turned at least once. At 2:20pm they were all opposite the Cliff moving east. The A30s went down for the rub and 20 minutes later they were all headed back to the west. The progress was not speedy but by 4:40pm the I15s were west of Kaikash, the A24s opposite Kaikash, the rest of the A4s and A5s were going alobg the Hanson shore and the A30s up to the western boundary. Whew!
Helena
01 Sep 2007 17:54:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
For the last while the whales, true to form, are now going east again.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 19:06:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s peeled away and came north through Blackney Pass just before dark. The others are nearing Robson Bight.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 20:51:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The eastbound groups, the I15s,the A36s, A5s and A4s are on their way out of the Reserve. Nothing further was heard from the A30s who continued west to Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 22:36:41 PDT
And the A36s for company. The whales are just coming into Blackney Pass. The full moon is hiding behind the clouds but still casting light on the misty calm ocean.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 00:11:26 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The A36s and the I15s are moving quickly to the east in Johnstone Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 01:19:09 PDT
No orcas present.
Good Morning! The A36s and the I15s continued east to the Reserve. They rubbed from 3:02am to 4:16am. They last calls we heard were at 5:02am. Thank you Yumi for staying with that marathon - all yesterday and through the night. There were audible dolphins in the early morning.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 08:13:50 PDT
Distant calls audible.
We are hearing A1 calls once more on Critical Point. A while before they were passing the rubbing beaches headed west.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:23:51 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s just rounded the corner at Critical Point. Sounds like they are not alone. The beginning of the parade?
Helena
01 Sep 2007 09:29:36 PDT
Orcas near mics.
The I15s are very close to Cracroft Point, the A4s sound like they are over closer to Vancouver Island. We have also heard A30s, A36s and A5s.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 10:24:13 PDT
Orcas rubbing on the shore bottom.
Well the whales went west, and then turned at the top end of Hanson Island, and then they went all the way back, past Critical Point and then down to the rubbing beaches where an A1 group is now rubbing.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 13:59:41 PDT
Distant calls audible.
Back and forth. Since the last poste the whales have turned at least once. At 2:20pm they were all opposite the Cliff moving east. The A30s went down for the rub and 20 minutes later they were all headed back to the west. The progress was not speedy but by 4:40pm the I15s were west of Kaikash, the A24s opposite Kaikash, the rest of the A4s and A5s were going alobg the Hanson shore and the A30s up to the western boundary. Whew!
Helena
01 Sep 2007 17:54:49 PDT
Distant calls audible.
For the last while the whales, true to form, are now going east again.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 19:06:54 PDT
Superb sounds!!
The A30s peeled away and came north through Blackney Pass just before dark. The others are nearing Robson Bight.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 20:51:10 PDT
Distant calls audible.
The eastbound groups, the I15s,the A36s, A5s and A4s are on their way out of the Reserve. Nothing further was heard from the A30s who continued west to Queen Charlotte Strait.
Helena
01 Sep 2007 22:36:41 PDT
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